Can Redline Rasbora and Whisker Shrimp Live Together?

Redline Rasbora is a peaceful species (1/10), while Whisker Shrimp is semi-aggressive (7/10). This notable difference means Whisker Shrimp may occasionally assert dominance over Redline Rasbora.

Large aggression gap (6 points) between Redline Rasbora and Whisker Shrimp increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

Redline Rasbora and Whisker Shrimp both frequent the Middle (Open Water) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Aggressive fish may bully and stress shy, slow-moving species.

Worth noting: Whisker Shrimp is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Redline Rasbora is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Redline Rasbora (4–6.8) and Whisker Shrimp (7–8) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Redline Rasbora and Whisker Shrimp together, plan for an aquarium of at least 80 litres with a minimum length of 80 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Redline Rasbora and Whisker Shrimp are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.